Andrew Bussa v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) (2018)

Andrew Bussa filed a claim alleging that an influenza vaccination on October 24, 2013, caused him to develop Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) with residual effects lasting over six months. His petition was filed on March 2, 2015.

Mr. Bussa passed away on February 1, 2016, and his estate's executor, Donata Tina Bussa, was substituted as the petitioner.

The executor later filed a motion to dismiss the claim, stating that she was unable to secure the necessary evidence to prove entitlement to compensation. The court noted challenges in establishing GBS, as Mr.

Bussa's symptoms improved without typical GBS treatments and could potentially be explained by a stroke or TIA. Furthermore, proving residual effects for six months was difficult due to his numerous preexisting comorbidities.

Ultimately, the court found insufficient evidence to support the claim and dismissed the case for insufficient proof. The petitioner elected to reject the Vaccine Program judgment to preserve her right to file a civil action.